Remembering the forgotten: Nambour RSL to honour Korean War

Australian troops move through the wreckage of a North Korean town. 

In the annals of history some conflicts bear the burden of being lost amidst the shadows of more prominent wars. 

One such chapter is the Korean War, sometimes overlooked in the lingering echoes of World War II and the turbulence of the Vietnam War. 

In Nambour, however, thanks to Nambour RSL Sub Branch, the Korean War is far from forgotten. On Saturday, July 29, 2023, the Sub Branch will honour the 70th Anniversary of the Korean War Armistice, breathing life into the memories of bravery and resilience that have endured despite the war’s classification as the “Forgotten War.”

It will be commemorated on Saturday 29 July from 11am at Quota Memorial Park. The  Armistice took place on 27 July 1953, after 339 Australians died and 1216 were wounded in the war. 43 Australian servicemen went “missing in action” presumed dead (RAN 2, Army 23, RAAF 18). 

Nambour RSL Sub Branch President Kim Symmons said the war, (1950 to 1953) was somewhat overshadowed by Australians still coming to terms with the tragic losses during WW2. It was treated with indifference by the Australian public as there appeared to be no direct threat to Australia.

“Though the Korean War and later the Vietnam War were both direct conflicts with communism, the Korean War differed in that it did prevent the communist North Korean threat to defeat South Korea,” he said.

“All community members are welcome to attend the service and any Korean War veterans and families can contact myself for further details.”

For information: kim.symmons@nambour.rslqld.net.au.